All About Garage Doors: ‘Springs’ Edition

Most Homeowners assume that the garage door opener is what lifts the door up and down.  But this is only partially true.  Garage door springs are designed to manage the heavy lifting of your garage door.  The springs actually counterbalance the weight of the door, creating a smooth and effortless movement that allows the opener to lift the door.  This mechanism is essential for both manual and automatic garage door operations.  It stores energy when door is closed and releases energy to assist the door being lifted when you open it.    Garage doors rely heavily on the function of springs, which are meticulously selected based on the specific needs of the door's design and operation.  This is based on size and weight of the door.

These springs, crucial for the balanced and safe functioning of garage doors, come primarily in two types. Each type serves a distinct purpose and is chosen based on factors such as efficiency, longevity, and suitability for the garage door's structure.  Torsion springs are known for their efficiency and durability, making them a preferred choice for many homeowners. These springs are installed above the closed door and utilize torque to facilitate the door's movement.  They offer efficient operation through the torque application and generally have a longer lifespan than other spring types.  Extension springs are also used in residential garage doors, mounted on either side of the door. They operate by extending and contracting to manage the door's movement.   

With the important role that the springs play in the operation of the door, regular maintenance is essential.  Some things are safe for homeowners to do themselves and then there are things best left to the professionals like us.  A safe part of maintenance is lubrication of the spring using a silicone based spray for garage doors, especially in our salty air environment.  Never use a 'grease' type of product. Sand, salt, and debris can collect in this grease and ruin the function of the springs (or any other part of your garage door, to be honest. ) The silicone spray can be used in springs, tracks, joints, chain rail and rollers.     Now, what is NOT safe for homeowners to do is to try and tighten or loosen the springs or cables.  These things hold tension and keep the door safely in place. Altering these could result in a door falling or spring or cable snapping and causing serious injury.   Some things are better left to the professionals with the proper tools and experience to safely maintain, repair or replace when needed.   All About Garage Doors Inc. has an annual service we recommend to our customers.  We service all moving parts and lubricate and tighten where necessary.